Reviews

"I highly recommend Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC. I never felt as if I was “just another client.”"

I highly recommend Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC for Divorce representation. The team of Phil Newman & Julie Ennis guided me through a contentious divorce. They were upfront with expectations. Meetings and discussions were never rushed so I never felt as if I was “just another client.” They answered all my questions, even the questions I didn’t know to ask, kept me informed of the latest developments, and concluded with a successful settlement via mediation.

Laura S.

"Their counsel was priceless."

Phil Newman was recommended to me by a colleague at work. Phil was the attorney representing my colleague’s former spouse – if this is not the highest recommendation a lawyer can receive, I don’t know what is.  In my divorce case, I was previously represented and that lawyer was incapable of moving my case forward, I was simply at the mercy of my ex-wife and stuck in a contested divorce with no end in sight.  The primary reason I sought out Phil was to get my case unstuck and minimize, as much as possible, the expense, time, and agony to resolve my case.  With his expertise and the help of the Puryear, Newman & Morton firm, they did exactly that and I am extremely grateful to him and his firm that all affected parties, especially the most precious to me, my son, can get on with their lives. Many times Phil did not tell me what I wanted to hear. Instead, based on his expertise with the Williamson County legal establishment and his years of experience, he told me what I needed to hear so I could make the most informed decisions in my case.  Having a couple of children himself, Phil was a great advocate for the father-son relationship and did a great job to ensure I could spend as much time with my son as possible, both during the case and after.  Even though my case is long over, he genuinely cares about my son’s well-being and asks how he’s doing.  Phil and his firm do a great job of keeping the entire case in perspective. That perspective is key as you struggle with all the conflict and bad-blood that develops in a contested divorce and many times blinds you from seeing the complete picture.  As a result, even though nobody “wins” in a divorce case, Phil and the Puryear, Newman & Morton team perform a great service by fairly keeping both sides of the case in focus and treating everyone with dignity and respect. Were it not for Phil and the Puryear, Newman & Morton team, I know for a fact I would still be stuck in contested-divorce hell which would cost be enormously in the long run – from a financial and emotional standpoint, but also prolonging a difficult transition for my son. To end my divorce nightmare, his counsel was priceless.

Keith S.

"Well-respected and work with great integrity & experience."

I’ve been a client of Phil Newman since 2003; he calls me a repeat offender because I’ve used him and his office several times over the past 14 years. When I experienced divorce for the first time, I didn’t know who to turn to.  I was intimidated by attorneys and was devastated by the situation. I happened to find Phil in the Yellow Pages (of all places) and, after our first meeting, immediately knew I could trust him to do a good job.  He was confident, determined, direct and fiercely protective of my rights, and made sure that my son and I were taken care of in the end. At times, when I let my emotions take over, Phil even brought me back to reality and kept us on track. Thanks to Phil, a sad and scary situation was made much easier.  I knew nothing about the process, but Phil left no stone unturned and walked me through the entire ordeal with compassion. Three years later, I was in a terrible automobile accident and, knowing my medical bills were going to be high, I immediately turned to Phil for his help.  Once again, he worked tirelessly for several months to ensure I was taken care of in the end. Thanks to Phil, we were able to settle the case in mediation and avoided a court trial. Several years later, I called Phil again asking for help with a real estate matter. His partner, Chas Morton, represented my second husband and me in a bizarre case and, at the last moment, was able to settle the case out of court.  Chas knows real estate and has great relationships with his colleagues in the industry.  His direct, no-nonsense approach was a huge asset to us in the final outcome of the case. Unfortunately, I faced a second divorce recently and, once again, turned to Phil for his assistance.  He knew exactly what was needed and didn’t back down from helping me through every step of the process. I can’t say enough about this firm.  I am treated like family and have the utmost confidence in all of the attorneys and staff there. I refer them at every opportunity I get and am grateful to have stumbled upon their office years ago. You won’t find a more confident, down-to-earth, direct, and savvy group of attorneys.  They are well-respected and work with great integrity and experience.

Brenda L.

"The best legal counsel & sound advice."

What I needed was a legal counsel to work with me through the divorce process, provide critical guidance, sound legal advice, and have a proven track record of expertise and results. Phil Newman provided that and more. He developed a strategic approach to the situation and evidenced proactive tactical sense engaging other attorneys. There was a myriad of details that he and his team tracked throughout and brought together at the right moments. These details, had Phil not seen to them, would have been very painful if not addressed before and during the mediation. The reason great coaches are highly sought after is they achieve results. Phil Newman provided the needed counsel in every situation leading up to the mediation and delivered results during the heat of the negotiation. To say I was impressed would be an understatement. If you need the best legal counsel and sound advice, and sometimes it’s advice you don’t want to hear but need to, then Phil Newman and the Puryear, Newman & Morton team deliver. It is important to note that I started the process with another attorney. A friend recommended Phil Newman, and what a difference it made switching to the Puryear, Newman & Morton team. Thank you for the work you and your team performed and for the support throughout!

Carl H.

"I would highly recommend Mr. Newman and his firm!"

I needed a lawyer because I had decided to file for divorce. I got a referral from a friend for an initial lawyer and called her up. This turned out to be a costly mistake.  I got some very bad advice for my unusual case. Two months later I got a referral for Phil Newman from a family friend and he took over my case.  From the start I liked Mr. Newman.  He is professional, honest, smart, approachable, available when I had questions/concerns, and unlike my first lawyer, I could understand his explanations – I just had to get used to his quick thinking/speaking. My case in total took 9 months, it was very hard, and once Mr. Newman took over I felt comfortable that he was taking good care of me. In the end, my case settled the day of trial, and Mr. Newman and his amazing staff helped me get everything I had wanted from the start!  I would highly recommend him and his firm!

Susan T.

"Demonstrated excellent knowledge of state & local laws."

Phil Newman demonstrated excellent knowledge of state and local laws and how they could best protect me and my children. He was a trusted advisor, not only with legal approach and supporting strategy but general divorce-related issues as well.  His legal support team was equally capable. Phil’s strong relationships and knowledge of Nashville’s judges and lawyers were also an asset to my case. Finally, he approached my case in a highly ethical manner, for example avoiding unnecessary legal conflict and related expenses when possible. Combined, I felt confident with Phil backing my interests and those of my children in court. The outcome of my case proved this confidence was well-founded.

Dave B.

"So grateful to have had Phil Newman and his team on my side."

In late 2013, I came to the realization that I needed to end my unhealthy marriage of 27 years. I asked a friend to recommend a strong family law attorney and was referred to Phil Newman of Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC. I made my first phone call to Phil in a very chaotic frame of mind.  Phil was able to give me advice on how to proceed until I could meet with him personally. The first time I met Phil he listened to my story, asked thoughtful questions and, was able to answer many of my immediate questions. I left our very first meeting feeling informed, and with a legal and financial plan. I found Phil and his office to be very professional, efficient, and caring. Going through any legal process is not pleasant, but I felt secure and taken care of by the entire Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC staff. There were times during the divorce process, particularly at mediation, when I was given difficult decisions to make. Phil and his staff helped me make those decisions. Phil may not tell you what you want to hear, but he will tell you exactly what you need to know to be informed during the divorce process. I am so grateful to have had Phil Newman and his team on my side.

Cindi S.

"Available for clients & goes the extra mile."

Alisha Warner is a wonderful attorney with a great work ethic. Her support and knowledge of the law were invaluable. She was a rock when needed.  She is always available for her clients and goes the extra mile. I respect Alisha and wish her the best!

Jayne M.

"Professional, knowledgeable, understanding & kind."

Professional, knowledgeable, understanding, and kind are just a few of the words I would use to describe Phil Newman and Alisha Warner. When I found myself in the midst of divorce proceedings I never saw coming, Phil and Alisha’s counsel and guidance throughout the process were invaluable. Phil devised a strategy to secure a very favorable and expeditious resolution to my financial and parenting issues with as little rancor as possible, understanding from the start what was best for me and for my children. He was a calming influence when the emotions of the situation threatened to derail the process. Alisha expertly answered every question I asked her, making certain that my concerns were fully addressed in the marital and parenting agreements. I recommend Phil and Alisha to anyone seeking counsel in a separation or divorce situation.

Katharine C.

"Very truthful with me & never made any empty promises."

I was recommended to Phil Newman of Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC through another local attorney in town. We had a unique custody situation and I was unsure of how to best proceed. After my initial meeting with Phil, I knew he would be the best attorney to help us obtain the desired outcome that we were looking for. He was very truthful with me and never made any empty promises. When I was working with him I could tell he truly cared about our case. Phil maintained constant professionalism and I would highly recommend them for family law issues. I will definitely be using Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC for any of my future legal needs.

Clint M.

"I would highly recommend Phil and his team."

Going through a divorce is difficult no matter where you are in life. It is critical from the outset to have the best legal counsel possible to help you understand your options, manage your expectations, and, most importantly, protect your rights as a parent. Phil Newman did an excellent job in all of those areas. Phil made sure that we were well prepared and positioned throughout the divorce process so that when we got to mediation, we could negotiate the best possible financial terms and favorable parenting plan. When the entire process was complete, I was very pleased with the outcome thanks to Phil’s ability to work well with the opposing counsel and the mediator in my case. I would highly recommend Phil and his team to anyone needing domestic legal assistance.

David H.

"Incredible ability to reassure his clients & help them focus on the important details."

The divorce process is like a roller coaster ride. Phil made me feel as though things were going to work out during the entire process, especially when I was doubtful. He has an incredible ability to reassure his clients and help them focus on the important details. At times, his little push of encouragement was all I needed. Alisha is the calm voice of reason. She tells it like it is, which is necessary and valued when you are looking at so many unknowns. Never was there a moment when I couldn’t talk to them or get all of my many questions answered. While I was interviewing attorneys, all of whom I’d been referred to, my gut kept leading me back to Phil and Alisha. I hope that when you are looking and interviewing attorneys for the emotional roller coaster ride that is divorce, you have the opportunity to work with these two great attorneys. They genuinely cared about my well-being, the well-being of my children, my financial stability, and safety. With all of the loss incurred, I feel I have gained two wonderful friends.

Michelle F.

"Truly grateful for the help & support you and your team have rendered."

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone at Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC for all of the services and time you put into my parenting time and child support cases. The relationship we have built over the years has grown into one that I value and appreciate. I am truly grateful for the help and support you and your team have rendered to my son and I.

Blake H.

"The yin and yang for a divorce team."

After coming to the conclusion that my marriage was in trouble, I was referred to Phil Newman. Going through a divorce is a very emotional experience. Phil and Julie are like a yin and yang for a divorce team.

Teri D.

"Put me at ease during this tough period of my life."

In the process of going through a divorce, I was given Phillip Newman’s name as an attorney I should call. Fortunately for me, I made that call. In our initial meeting, Phil’s demeanor immediately put me at ease during this tough period of my life. His knowledge of the law, his integrity, and his attention to detail was invaluable during the divorce proceedings. I have a young daughter and Phil always looked out for, not only my best interest but what was best for her as well. If you require any type of civil litigation, I recommend you contact Phil Newman. He is definitely a highly motivated individual you want in your corner!

Jerry S.

"He was empathetic but also told me what I needed to hear."

Phil and his team were terrific to work with.  He was empathetic but also told me what I needed to hear.  Phil was straightforward. He laid out clear options and made recommendations on the approach.  He was accessible and responsive.  Phil went the extra mile to research a topic on the case that was unique. He used his extensive network and relationships to get answers to difficult questions. I highly recommend Phil and his team.

S.T.

"I cannot speak highly enough of how my case was handled!"

When faced with an unexpected divorce, I started to research who to work with. A good friend gave me names that were recommended as the best in the Nashville area, and I was pleased to see an old friend Phil Newman at the top of the list. Phil not only is great at what he does, he cared about me as a person during the difficult process. He helped me take the emotion out of some tough decisions, represented me very effectively, and looked out not only for my best interest but the interest of my kids. Phil and Julie were professional and kept a good pace to reduce the time frame and expense of a painful process. I appreciated how Phil and his team communicated, followed up and made sure I understood what steps were next, let me know what may or may not happen, and would prepare me both legally and emotionally. I cannot speak highly enough of how my case was handled and would definitely recommend Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC.

Tim B.

"Good, honest, strong & caring people."

Divorce can be sticky, ugly, emotional, tough, exhausting, and expensive. While no one will ever say divorce is fun, it can be manageable if you have the right legal counsel leading you through the entire process. I can say that Phil and Julie were the perfect counsel for me. I came to Phil because I had four separate people recommend him both professionally and personally. Julie was just a huge added bonus. What makes them an awesome team Character. Phil and Julie are good, honest, strong, caring people. In my first meeting with Phil and Julie, they took the time to get to know me, our situation, and what was most important to me. Over the course of the divorce proceedings, we had a lot of laughs, but they were also there handing me kleenex for my tears and offering strength, encouragement, and chocolate when I needed it the most. Knowledge and Experience in Family Law. Plain and simple, Phil and Julie know their stuff. In our first meeting, they explained there is a ninety-day waiting period for divorce when there are children involved. I explained that on day ninety-one, I wanted my divorce final. And on day ninety-one, we were standing in front of the judge finalizing our divorce. They knew what needed to happen, how it needed to happen, and when in needed to happen. It also speaks volumes when you witness multiple other attorneys trying to pick Phil and Julie’s brains. Attention to Detail. Attention to all the filings, attention to timing, attention to what was most important to me, attention to which mediator would be the best fit for our situation, attention to which judge would hear our case and what their ruling would probably be on each specific topic, Phil and Julie thought through everything. Accessibility and Reliability. Day or night, weekday or weekend, they were both there for me when/if I needed them. Trust and Comfort. I was able to put the divorce in Phil and Julie’s hands and trust in them. This allowed me to take a step back and focus on all of the other millions of details that go along with a divorce. And most important, it allowed me to focus on taking care of myself and my daughter. While I look forward to keeping in touch with Phil and Julie off the clock, I can say they were worth every penny and I am lucky they agreed to take me on as a client.

Lisa S.

"I have never been so impressed as I am with his full-service firm."

Mr. Newman, his colleagues, partners, and staff assisted me at a time when an unexpected tragedy struck. As I met with him on several occasions I was impressed with his patience in clearly explaining my options, helping me understand what counter-arguments might be used, and what the most likely outcome would be. He immediately acted on the matter by assigning appropriate personnel to investigate, prepare correspondences, explore legal options (even if it meant consulting his partners or outside sources), and respond to any of my inquiries, needs, or concerns. His demeanor was compassionate and supportive, and his support staff continued to stand by me months after the matter settled. In my 34 years of experience in law, I have never been so impressed as I am with his full-service firm, and not only recommend Puryear, Newman & Morton, PLLC, but would call upon Phil and his firm again.

Dagne T.

"Provided honest & thoughtful feedback to my concerns."

Phil had handled the divorce cases for 2 close friends. They recommended him when it came time for me to file for my divorce. Phil did an amazing job handling my divorce. My case was complex due to my job and investments. Phil made himself available to discuss the valuation issues and provide honest and thoughtful feedback to my concerns. He had me prepared and helped me have realistic expectations. He got mediation scheduled promptly and counseled me to do the things I needed to do to get my case settled as quickly as possible. He handled the mediation of my case like a pro and got what I believe was a just and fair settlement given the complexity of the case. His assistant Julie Ennis was on top of things and helped coach me through the financial disclosures.  She is very efficient, and we did not waste time or legal fees. Julie is GREAT!!! I settled my divorce in approximately 90 days (the allowable minimum wait) and now I am free to move forward with the rest of my life.

Randy S.

"Made one of the most difficult times of my life a bit easier to stomach."

At our first meeting, I was impressed with Alisha Warner’s communication skills and professional demeanor. As we moved along, I found Alisha to be reliable, dedicated, supportive, patient, and eternally upbeat. Organized and diligent, Alisha was always one step ahead of those involved and made one of the most difficult times of my life a bit easier to stomach. Should you be in need of legal representation, please do not hesitate to hire Alisha, as you will without a doubt be in very good hands.

Lauren L.

"I have since recommended Phil to friends in need."

When I needed an attorney, I reached out to friends and colleagues for recommendations. Phil was recommended to me by two different people. I interviewed several attorneys that would be willing to work with my husband and me on an amicable divorce. In my initial meeting with Phil, he told me that we were interviewing each other…I wasn’t just interviewing him. It was a difficult decision, but I decided to work with Phil because he kept using the phrase “what’s in the best interest of the children” during our meeting. I didn’t always like what Phil recommended to me, but I believed it was fair and in the best interest of my family. Our divorce was fairly simple and quick. Phil and my ex-husband’s attorney worked extremely well together and were able to advise us and work with us to come to an agreement outside of mediation or court. Phil’s value was made abundantly clear after the divorce. Several days after our divorce was final, my ex-husband notified me he was leaving for inpatient rehabilitation for alcohol abuse, which had not been disclosed during the development of the parenting plan or marital dissolution agreement. Phil went above and beyond to help navigate the situation with my children during and after treatment. He continues to do what is in the best interest of my children, and in turn me, even months after our divorce was finalized. When selecting the attorney I was going to work with on my divorce, I didn’t realize I would work with this person for years to come. Phil and I will work together for another 8 years until my youngest child is 18. I am more comfortable with the decision to work with Phil and his team now more than ever. I have since recommended Phil to friends in need and intend to work with his partners on other Family Law issues, such as wills and trusts.

Kelly H.

"Strong advocate, great listener & fierce negotiator."

Phil was highly recommended to me by a long-time friend who had recently gone through a divorce and was in a very similar situation to mine. I have two young boys and was the breadwinner in my household, which is very relevant because I had a hard time accepting the role reversal of my situation. I knew within 5 minutes of sitting down with Phil and his paralegal, Julie, that I didn’t need to look any further.  Phil is a busy lawyer (which means he’s a good lawyer) so he can be hard to pin down at times, BUT he was always there when I needed him – responding to texts and phone calls at night, early morning, and over the weekend. He and Julie not only counseled me through the technical aspects of the divorce but the emotional aspects as well.  Phil would empathize with me and validate my feelings, but he also told me what I needed to hear even if it wasn’t what I wanted to hear. Thankfully, we were able to settle my divorce in mediation. Phil took the time to explain the mediation process to me and ensure I was well-prepped – both materially and emotionally. The mediation was 11 grueling hours.  There was one point when we were negotiating alimony – a real sticking point for me – when Phil looked me straight in the eye and said, “Tracy, that’s a good deal.  You need to take it.” I didn’t like it but I took it. No questions asked. And, this is representative of how my whole process went.  Throughout one of the most difficult periods of my life when I was at my most vulnerable, Phil was my rock and my protector. I felt strong because I had Phil and Julie in my corner.  On one hand, I’m grateful my divorce didn’t end up in court, but on the other hand, I would have loved to see him in action in that setting. He’s a strong advocate, great listener, and fierce negotiator, but best of all…he’s an overall wonderful human. I would recommend Phil over and over again.

Tracy P.

"I would highly recommend their services!"

Phil, September and Lee were a great team representing my interests. They were professional, supportive and realistic - all things I greatly valued when dealing with emotional legal matters. I would highly recommend their services!

Mark M.

"My attorney, Phil Newman, took the time to thoroughly understand my case."

My attorney, Phil Newman, took the time to thoroughly understand my case and he and his staff were responsive to all my needs and questions.

Tina Z.

"Utmost knowledge, professionalism, time & attention."

Utmost knowledge, professionalism, time, and attention given. Very pleased with the entire office and can’t speak highly enough about Phil Newman and Alisha Warner for the care given to all matters and their guidance and understanding of family law. I strongly recommend them!

Former Client

"Highly recommend."

Phil Newman is an excellent divorce attorney, professional and thorough. He and his team were responsive to all my questions and concerns. I was very pleased with the fair settlement that was reached. He also provided good advice pre and post divorce.

Former Client

"Professional, supportive & realistic."

Phil, September, and Lee were a great team representing my interests. They were professional, supportive and realistic - all things I greatly valued when dealing with emotional legal matters. I would highly recommend their services!

Mark M.

"Utmost knowledge, professionalism, time, and attention given."

Utmost knowledge, professionalism, time, and attention given. Very pleased with the entire office and can’t speak highly enough about Phil Newman and Alisha Warner for the care given to all matters and their guidance and understanding of family law. I strongly recommend them!

Former Client

"Extremely well-prepared & professional."

Extremely well-prepared & professional. Phil Newman & his competent staff; September & Alla were exemplary in their efforts which resulted in a successful outcome.

Marilyn H.

"Alisha was patient, professional, and made things easy for me to understand."

Alisha was patient, professional, and made things easy for me to understand. She made me feel comfortable talking about sensitive issues, and I appreciate her insight. If you have the chance to work with her, go for it! You'll be as impressed as I was.

Sharon M.

"... I can't recommend the whole team at Puryear, Newman & Morton highly enough - they are ALL incredible to work with and ultimately fight for what's best for everyone in the long run."

I never thought I'd need a divorce lawyer but from the minute I met Phil Newman we just clicked. His warm, caring nature together with his no-nonsense, cut-to-the-chase way makes him a bulldog of a lawyer. In the end, the way he fights for what's best for the CHILD is what sets him apart. And he's had to put me in my place a few times, but I've always been better as a result. Now having been divorced for many years and going through several post-divorce rounds of parenting plan changes, I can't recommend Phil and his team highly enough. I can't recommend the whole team at Puryear, Newman & Morton highly enough - they are ALL incredible to work with and ultimately fight for what's best for everyone in the long run.

Kristen M.

"I highly recommend them."

From the moment I made the first phone call to the moment my divorce was completed, I knew I was in the very best of hands.  Every person on Phil Newman's team was professional, compassionate, strong, and willing to answer any and all questions I had.  Going through a divorce can be difficult and disorienting. The Team at Puryear, Newman, & Morton was there with me every step of the way, making things easy to understand, doing the heavy lifting and guiding me each step along the way.  I highly recommend them.

Liz W.

"Extremely pleased with their representation."

I highly recommend PNM for their professionalism, expertise and care. They treat their clients with kindness and the utmost respect while communicating quickly and effectively. I am extremely pleased with their representation. They are honest with me, manage my expectations and work very hard for me. They delivered everything they said they would. You cannot go wrong hiring PNM. Phil and Alisha are the best team!

Heather D.

"I would highly recommend."

Alisha was committed to getting the best possible outcome for me. She took the time to get to know me and my situation. She is very knowledgeable, professional, confident and compassionate. I would highly recommend her.

Former Client

"They truly cared about me and my future."

I am beyond grateful to Phil Newman and Alisha Warner for making a difficult period in my life go as easy as possible. They are professional, trustworthy and knowledgeable. The entire staff at Puryear, Newman and Morton are amazing! After my first meeting, I knew they were the ones I wanted to represent me. Phil and Alisha worked to get the best results possible. They truly cared about me and my future. I am forever thankful!

Beverly T.

"If you are looking for a professional, personable, ethical, and determined lawyer then look no further!"

Alisha was an amazing support through my separation & divorce! She provided exceptional professional guidance! She was personable and I felt like she took a vested interest in my case. I believe she fought hard for the best possible outcome in my situation and I am very pleased with the results & outcome of my situation. If you are looking for a professional, personable, ethical, and determined lawyer then look no further! Alisha is just what you need!

Christa

"I knew I had someone watching my back and helping me prepare for next steps as well as keeping me informed of developments or just helping me to understand divorce law in Tennessee."

I was referred to Philip Newman by an individual that had gone through a divorce and retained his services a few years ago. I called Phil and left a voicemail which he returned my call that evening. I was appreciative he returned my call later that evening because it was an incredibly stressful time in my life and I was feeling overwhelmed. We spoke for about an hour as I shared my case. The following day I paid the retainer and Phil went to work right away on my behalf. He and his team were great to work with and made me feel safe if that is a good word to use. I knew I had someone watching my back and helping me prepare for next steps as well as keeping me informed of developments or just helping me to understand divorce law in Tennessee. I had no idea what to expect but they were there the whole time coaching, encouraging and listening. My ex wife threw at me several different challenges along the way and even had some tense moments on the day of our hearing even though we had a signed agreement. Phil was able to navigate the whole process and get it done without more mediation. I am grateful for his services and recommend without hesitation. Thank you!

Matthew